#BixbyFifty #Day10 – Sharing Burdens

Yesterday’s entry was tough for me to write. I am very glad that I did write it though, it was a great release for me. The amount of comments and outpouring of support and love has been phenomenal. Thank you. I cannot begin to tell you how important those words have been.

It strikes me as sounding cliché to say that all of the posts and words are a great support, but truthfully, they are. Knowing that there are people out there that empathize with our pain somehow lessens that pain.

I remember a long time ago thinking about social media and that it was very difficult to post or say anything when someone shared the loss of a loved one or other personal tragedy. I used to spend a lot of time searching for the perfect thing to say, and quite often would not say anything. I realize now that any words that are gently and lovingly spoken/written are the perfect words. It was when mom passed away and many people wrote words of love and support; I cherished everything people said. I realized then the power of support is in those small gestures and simple words. I realized the power of sharing burdens.

The events of last week will be with us for a long time. They will be with Teri a long time. The healing process will take awhile. My natural tendencies have always been to withdraw and face my challenges alone. Faced with a problem, I would steel my nerves, and find a quiet place to chew on my problem in isolation. That is fine for intellectual problems, but not so effective for matters of the spirit or heart. It has been a lesson for me, and still is. I try to be more open with my challenges these days and in doing so I find that their power over me is diminished.

Today, I am grateful for the lessons I have received about sharing burdens, but more importantly, I am grateful for the love, support, and kindness from family and friends.

2 thoughts on “#BixbyFifty #Day10 – Sharing Burdens

  1. Well Matt – you got me again – honesty, and the ability to learn from life and from those around you. Very good to hear your voice.

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